3 Common Medical Problems
Involving The Eyes

Medical Problems That Eyes Have

Our eyes allow us to see and experience all of the wonderful surroundings we experience each and every day. They allow us to see details, colours, far away objects and even those near and dear to us. So what happens when we suffer from problems with our eyes?

Floaters

For some people, eye floaters are an annoyance. For others, they can impact on the vision enough to prevent them from driving. Eye floaters are protein strands that become detached and float around in the vitreous fluid of the eyeball. When we are young the fluid is like a jelly, but as we age it liquefies and becomes more like water. The protein strands cast shadows over the retina creating shapes from cobwebs to small black dots. The shadows move with the eyes and can cause annoyance whenever you are in brightly lit places. Over time the floaters will slowly fall to the bottom of the eye and should no longer pose a problem. While harmless, a sudden onset of floaters can point to retinal detachment.

Flashes

Flashes can come in many forms ranging from oscillating to lightning. Oscillating flashes which look like strobe lights running the outer corners of the eyes is usually caused by an ocular migraine. Ocular migraines can be accompanied by a headache, although 9 times out of 10 the only clue to a migraine is the oscillating light which can only be seen with the eyes open and in a well-lit area. It can last anywhere from a few minutes to several months. Flashes that resemble lightning strikes and that can be seen with the eyes closed and in the dark are usually caused for concern as they point to retinal detachment. If you experience these then see your doctor immediately.

Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is caused when the retina detaches itself from the vessel that supplies blood to the eye. When a detachment happens the eye is no longer receiving oxygen and slowly starts to die. If left untreated retinal detachment can lead to permanent blindness and damage to the eyes. If caught early enough medical intervention can reattach the retina and prevent blindness. Retinal detachment is common with those suffering from diabetes, which also causes several other notable afflictions with not only eye health but all parts of the body.

Without our sight, we would be living in a dark world. Books would be unread, sights unseen, and the faces of those who mean so much to us would be nothing more than a guess. Take care of your eyes and they will last you a lifetime.